Manduki Mudra
Introduction
Manduki Mudra (also called Manduki Kriya or Manduki Karana) is a yogic mudra mentioned in Hatha Yoga texts such as the Gheranda Samhita and Hatha Yoga Pradipika. The name comes from the Sanskrit word Manduka meaning frog, as the mudra resembles the wide mouth of a frog.
It is a tongue-based mudra, often considered a preliminary practice to Khechari Mudra. Manduki Mudra is used for stilling the mind, activating higher awareness, and controlling prana.
Meaning
Manduki = Frog.
Mudra = Gesture/seal.
The mudra mimics the frog’s movement of opening its mouth and extending the tongue, representing awareness of taste, inner nectar (Amrita), and awakening consciousness.
How to Perform (Practice)
Sit in bhadrasana. If possible, without straining, adjust so that the toes are pointing outward. The buttocks should rest on the floor.
A folded blanket may also be placed underneath the buttocks to apply firm pressure to the perineum, stimulating the region of mooladhara chakra.
Place the hands on the knees, holding the spine and head straight. Close the eyes and relax the whole body.
This is manduki asana. Open the eyes and perform nasikagra drishti.
When the eyes become tired, close them for a few seconds. Continue the practice for 5 minutes, until the mind and senses become introverted.
Benefits
Physical Benefits
Stimulates the salivary glands, promoting digestion.
Lubricates the mouth and throat, preventing dryness.
Strengthens tongue and throat muscles.
Activates vagus nerve and improves parasympathetic function.
Energetic Benefits
Awakens the taste of Amrita (nectar of immortality) in advanced stages.
Prepares for Khechari Mudra by training the tongue.
Balances prana in Vishuddhi chakra (throat).
Enhances control over Udana Vayu (upward-moving energy).
Mental & Spiritual Benefits
Calms the wandering mind.
Improves concentration and meditative absorption (dhyana).
Dissolves sensory distractions by focusing on tongue movement.
Promotes inner awareness and stillness.
Contraindications
Not recommended for those with mouth ulcers, throat infections, or tongue injuries.
Avoid if suffering from excess salivation disorders or severe digestive imbalance.
People with neurological tremors of the tongue should consult a teacher before practice.
Should be avoided immediately after meals.
Anatomy & Physiology
Involves glossopharyngeal and hypoglossal nerves controlling tongue movement.
Stimulates taste buds, enhancing saliva production → aiding digestion.
Engages parasympathetic nervous system, inducing relaxation.
Strengthens muscles of oropharynx and tongue base.
Kinesiology
Tongue movements involve extrinsic tongue muscles (genioglossus, styloglossus, hyoglossus).
Controlled tongue rolling develops neuromuscular coordination.
Enhances jaw stability and orofacial awareness.
Neurology
Stimulates cranial nerves (VII – facial, IX – glossopharyngeal, XII – hypoglossal).
Activates brainstem reflexes linked with swallowing and breathing.
Calms limbic system by rhythmic movement and breath focus.
Prepares the nervous system for higher mudras like Khechari.
Duration of Practice
Beginners: 2–3 minutes daily.
Intermediate: Up to 10 minutes.
Advanced: Can be integrated into meditation for 15–20 minutes.
Best practiced early morning or before meditation.
Counter Mudra
Khechari Mudra (as the next progression).
Shanmukhi Mudra (to turn senses inward if Manduki activates restlessness).
Chin Mudra (for grounding after Manduki practice).
Conclusion
Manduki Mudra is a simple yet powerful yogic practice that bridges the physical and spiritual aspects of yoga. It tones the tongue and throat, stimulates digestion, calms the mind, and prepares the practitioner for advanced mudras like Khechari. As a gateway to higher awareness, it teaches the yogi to redirect sensory energy inward, discovering inner nectar and peace.
FAQ
Q1. Is Manduki Mudra only for advanced yogis?
No, beginners can practice it safely, but deeper experiences (nectar awareness) come with advanced practice.
Q2. Can it be practiced daily?
Yes, ideally during meditation sessions.
Q3. What is the main purpose?
To control the tongue, activate inner awareness, and prepare for Khechari Mudra.
Q4. Which chakra does it stimulate?
Primarily Vishuddhi (throat chakra) and secondarily Ajna (third eye).
Q5. Does it really produce nectar (Amrita)?
Symbolically, yes. Physiologically, it enhances saliva and relaxation, which yogis interpret as Amrita.
References
Hatha Yoga Pradipika – Swatmarama.
Gheranda Samhita.
Swami Satyananda Saraswati – Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha.
Bihar School of Yoga publications on Mudra & Bandha.
Gertrud Hirschi – Mudras: Yoga in Your Hands.
Scientific studies on tongue–brain connection and cranial nerve stimulation in yoga.